Aussie Childcare Network Forum

What are the requirements of a long day care centre in documenting the activities of children?

as far as im aware in a long day care centre we are obligated to document a child learning on an ongoing basis. I haven't heard of a set number of observations required as per regulations. that is something you work out with your nominated supervisor/director of which you deem is sufficient enough to document the child's learning.

Do parents need to see some or any documentation on their children's activities under EYLF? If so should this be daily or weekly or each term? Thanks for your help.

Within the National Quality Standard - Quality Area 1: Educational Program and Practice, states the following:

The Quality Area Educational program and practice requires education and care services to have an educational program that meets children’s individual learning and development needs.

The knowledge, ideas, culture, abilities and interests of your child should be incorporated into the program, with continuous assessment of your child’s learning and development.

I am also providing you with a link to NQS - QA1 for more information on the above:

http://www.acecqa.gov.au/Educational-pr ... d-practice

Do parents need to see some or any documentation on their children's activities under EYLF? If so should this be daily or weekly or each term? Thanks for your help.

It is encouraged that parents play a vital role in their child's learning and should be given an opportunity to view all the information you gather on their child's learning and development. This my include observations, learning stories, art work samples, programming. etc. You can also create individual child portfolios where you can add each child's documentation in a presentable manner for parents to view at their pleasure. A portfolio documents the learning journey a child goes through...

In regards to observations, learning stories their is no set limit on how many needs to be done but typically observations should be completed at least once per month per child. Learning stories are usually done when describing an event that took place or a special experience that occurred etc. Maybe once a month or so depending on what happens at your centre and can be added into each child's folder for parents to view. Whatever documentation you show to parents it's important for them to understand what you are doing and why and if possible gain feedback from them which can added onto programming as well.

Here is some more information that may help as well:

EYLF Programming and Planning
Portfolios In Childcare
How To Write A Learning Story

Hopefully this helps you getter a better idea of what is required,

,
L.A